Best Instruments to Learn for Classical Music

The Ultimate Best Instruments to Learn for Classical Music Lovers

by with No Comment BlogClassical Instruments

Discover the Best Instruments to Learn for Classical Music

Classical music is a realm that offers peace, discipline, and mastery over melodies. Especially in India, classical music is deeply rooted in culture, traditions, and spirituality. Choosing the best instruments to learn for classical music enthusiasts can be a life-changing decision for those who want to embark on this timeless journey. Whether you wish to perform on stage, teach, or simply enrich your soul, selecting the right Indian classical instrument is crucial. This detailed guide will help you understand the finest instruments you can learn, their importance, and how they build your musical foundation.



1. Sitar – The Queen of Strings

Sitar in Indian Classical Music 4

The sitar is perhaps the most iconic Indian classical string instrument known worldwide for its deep, resonant sound and complex melodic patterns. Used predominantly in Hindustani classical music, the sitar has been immortalised by maestros like Pandit Ravi Shankar.

Learning the sitar helps you develop intricate finger techniques, a strong sense of melody, and patience. Its ability to express ragas beautifully makes it a top choice for any classical music lover. Though it requires dedication and rigorous practice, the results are soulful and profound.



2. Tabla – The Soul of Rhythm

No Indian classical performance is complete without the tabla. This percussion instrument is essential for understanding rhythm cycles (taals) that form the backbone of Indian music. Tabla learners develop coordination, rhythm sense, and improvisation skills.

Legends like Ustad Zakir Hussain have elevated tabla to international stages, showcasing how mastering it can open up performance and teaching opportunities. Its adaptability also allows collaboration with other genres, making it one of the best instruments to learn for classical music enthusiasts.


3. Veena – The Ancient Divine Instrument

The veena is among the oldest Indian instruments, known for its meditative and spiritual sound. Used mainly in Carnatic music, it is deeply associated with Goddess Saraswati, symbolising knowledge and arts.

Learning veena enhances your understanding of gamakas (ornamentations) and ragas deeply. Its structure requires proper posture and discipline, making it ideal for those who want to immerse themselves completely in the world of classical music.


4. Bansuri – The Melodic Bamboo Flute

how to properly care for your flute 1

Bansuri, or the bamboo flute, is an integral wind instrument in Indian classical music, often associated with Lord Krishna. It produces hauntingly beautiful melodies, perfect for expressing deep emotions.

Bansuri learners develop strong breath control, embouchure, and melodic improvisation. It is also one of the most accessible instruments to begin your classical journey, requiring minimal setup but delivering maximum emotional depth.


5. Mridangam – The Backbone of Carnatic Rhythm

Mridangam 18 inch with rope

Mridangam is the primary percussion instrument in Carnatic music, similar to how tabla is for Hindustani music. It offers powerful rhythmic structures and tonal versatility, supporting and enhancing vocal and instrumental performances.

Learning mridangam refines your sense of rhythm, improvisation, and accompaniment skills, making you an essential part of any classical ensemble. It also builds physical stamina and focus due to its rigorous practice requirements.


6. Sarod – The Expressive String Powerhouse

Best Instruments to Learn for Classical Music

The sarod is a fretless string instrument known for its deep, introspective sound and complex playing technique. Prominent in Hindustani classical music, it allows for smooth glides and intricate note transitions.

Learning sarod builds finger strength, melodic precision, and raga understanding. Though heavier and more demanding than sitar, it produces a unique sound that captivates any classical music enthusiast.


7. Santoor – The Mesmerising Hundred Strings

Best Instruments to Learn for Classical Music(2)

The santoor is a hammered dulcimer with about a hundred strings, producing a shimmering, rich sound. It is mainly used in Kashmiri folk and Hindustani classical music.

Learning santoor enhances your coordination, rhythmic clarity, and melodic understanding simultaneously. Its unique playing style with lightweight mallets sets it apart as a visual and auditory treat in performances.


8. Harmonium – The Supportive Melodic Base

Double Reed harmonium

Though not originally Indian, the harmonium has become a core part of Indian classical music, especially in vocal accompaniment. It helps learners understand pitch, scales, and raga structures effectively.

Harmonium is highly recommended for vocalists and composers, as it aids in developing a strong melodic foundation and improvisational creativity. Its portability also makes it ideal for teaching and performing anywhere.


9. Violin – The Western Entry into Indian Classical

Violin wood colour with case

The violin has been seamlessly integrated into Indian classical music, especially in Carnatic traditions. Played differently from Western styles, it produces highly expressive and ornamented melodies.

Learning violin for Indian classical music builds posture discipline, melodic improvisation, and microtonal accuracy. It is a versatile choice, allowing you to collaborate across genres while retaining classical mastery.


10. Pakhawaj – The Grand Percussion Legacy

Best Instruments to Learn for Classical Music(3)

Pakhawaj is an ancient percussion instrument, the predecessor of tabla, used predominantly in Dhrupad music. It produces powerful bass tones and rhythmic depth unmatched by other instruments.

Learning pakhawaj instills rhythm discipline, arm strength, and understanding of intricate taal patterns. Though less common today, it remains essential for Dhrupad and temple music traditions, offering a unique skillset to classical percussion learners.


Conclusion

Choosing the best instruments to learn for classical music enthusiasts is not just about learning an instrument; it is about embracing a cultural, spiritual, and artistic journey. Indian classical instruments like sitar, tabla, veena, bansuri, and others carry centuries of tradition and wisdom within their strings, membranes, and hollows. As you embark on this path, remember that dedication, patience, and respect for the art form are as important as your choice of instrument. Whether you aim to perform, teach, or purely immerse yourself in music, mastering any of these Indian classical instruments will enrich your life with timeless beauty and deep inner fulfilment.


At NMS Musicals, we offer a comprehensive range of musical instruments, including percussion, string, wind, and keyboard instruments. Our services encompass sales, expert servicing, and the manufacture of leather instruments. Explore our diverse collection and find the perfect instrument to suit your musical needs.

Visit our website to browse our offerings: nmsmusicals.in

For a closer look at our products, check out our shop page: nmsmusicals.in/shop

Stay connected with us through our social media channels:
Our shop locations are:

For inquiries, contact/Whatsapp us at 9500663895 or email us at laxman.m89@gmail.com.

Discover the world of musical instruments with NMS Musicals today!

For a visual overview of our percussion instruments, watch the following video:

Classical Instruments 2

Timeless Picks: Top 5 Classical Instruments to Learn

by with No Comment BlogClassical Instruments

Explore the top 5 classical instruments to learn

Classical Instruments

Learning a classical instrument can be one of the most rewarding journeys for any aspiring musician. It not only builds a strong musical foundation but also fosters discipline, creativity, and cultural understanding. When it comes to Indian classical music, there are several time-tested instruments that have shaped the musical heritage of the subcontinent. For children, teenagers, or even adults with an interest in music, starting with the right classical instrument can open doors to performance, cultural appreciation, and personal growth. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 classical instruments to learn for future musicians—highlighting their origins, benefits, and why they are still relevant in today’s modern world.



Top 5 Indian Classical Instruments to Learn

1. Sitar – The Soulful String

The sitar is perhaps the most recognized Indian string instrument around the world. With its long neck, multiple strings, and resonant tones, the sitar has been a pillar of Hindustani classical music.

Why Choose the Sitar?

  • It promotes intricate finger movements and string techniques.
  • Helps learners develop a sense of melody (raga) and rhythm (tala).
  • Students gain exposure to centuries-old compositions.

Benefits for Future Musicians:
Learning sitar builds musical dexterity and enhances listening skills. It also introduces learners to improvisational playing and musical interpretation, which are valuable across all genres of music.

Getting Started Tip:
Begin with a student-sized sitar and a basic raga like Yaman to grasp the scale and rhythm structure.



2. Tabla – The Versatile Percussion

No Indian classical concert is complete without the tabla. This pair of hand drums is the foundation of rhythm in North Indian music.

Why Choose the Tabla?

  • Encourages coordination and hand strength.
  • Teaches complex rhythmic cycles (taals) and improvisation.
  • It’s both a solo and an accompaniment instrument.

Benefits for Future Musicians:
Tabla players often develop superior timing, which is transferable to any musical genre. Its wide use in fusion and world music also makes it appealing for modern learners.

Getting Started Tip:
Start with basic taals like Teentaal and learn to maintain steady tempo with a metronome or lehra app.



3. Mridangam – The Southern Pulse

A central instrument in Carnatic music, the mridangam is a double-headed drum that adds depth and rhythm to compositions.

Why Choose the Mridangam?

  • Teaches South Indian rhythm structures (tala system).
  • Encourages dynamic control and precision in hand movement.
  • Strong foundation for other percussion instruments.

Benefits for Future Musicians:
Mridangam training gives learners insight into rhythmic phrasing and aesthetic timing. Its influence is evident in many global percussion styles.

Getting Started Tip:
Pair your learning with a Carnatic vocal or instrumental class to better understand the rhythmic cycles.



4. Bansuri – The Meditative Flute

The bansuri, a bamboo flute, is known for its calming and haunting sound. It’s widely used in both Hindustani and light Indian music forms.

Why Choose the Bansuri?

  • Teaches breath control and pitch stability.
  • Excellent for melody training and improvisation.
  • Portable and beginner-friendly.

Benefits for Future Musicians:
Learning bansuri can improve lung capacity and musical sensitivity. It also aids in mastering Indian ragas in a vocal-like manner.

Getting Started Tip:
Start with a middle-octave flute tuned in C or D for easier fingering and tone control.



5. Veena – The Ancient Muse

The veena, a traditional South Indian plucked string instrument, has deep roots in Indian mythology and music. It’s a spiritual and technical instrument ideal for serious learners.

Why Choose the Veena?

  • Teaches both melody and rhythm simultaneously.
  • Develops strength and dexterity in both hands.
  • Rich tonal quality and cultural depth.

Benefits for Future Musicians:
Veena enhances musical understanding and expression. It also builds mental concentration and interpretive skills.

Getting Started Tip:
Learn from a teacher who blends theory and practice to understand the veena’s full musical range.



How to Choose the Right Instrument

1. Consider the Student’s Age and Interest

Younger children may find string instruments like sitar or veena more challenging, while percussion instruments like tabla may offer more immediate engagement.

2. Physical Compatibility

Some instruments require larger hand spans or stronger breath control. Trial sessions can help determine what fits best.

3. Availability of Teachers and Instruments

Choose an instrument that has qualified instructors and accessible, good-quality instruments nearby.

4. Long-Term Engagement

Think about the musical journey—some instruments offer quicker progress, while others offer deeper complexity and long-term growth.

5. Cultural and Spiritual Connection

Instruments like the veena and bansuri carry cultural weight and spiritual resonance, which can be meaningful for learners seeking depth in their musical pursuit.



Advantages of Learning Indian Classical Instruments

1. Cognitive Development

Studies show music education enhances memory, spatial reasoning, and language skills.

2. Discipline and Patience

Classical instruments require structured practice, building perseverance and discipline in learners.

3. Emotional Expression

Indian classical music allows students to express emotions through ragas and compositions, aiding in emotional intelligence.

4. Cultural Appreciation

Learning traditional instruments introduces students to India’s rich heritage and connects them with historical traditions.

5. Versatility in Music

Classical training builds a foundation that makes it easier to branch into fusion, film, or contemporary music styles.



Practice Tips for Beginners

1. Stick to a Daily Routine

Even 30 minutes a day can lead to consistent progress.

2. Record and Review

Use your phone to record practice sessions and track improvements.

3. Use Supporting Tools

Lehra apps, tanpura drones, and metronomes enhance accuracy and rhythmic alignment.

4. Learn from Live Performances

Attend classical concerts or watch online recitals to understand nuances and stagecraft.

5. Keep Patience and Stay Inspired

Mastery takes time. Read about your favorite artists or explore the history behind your instrument to stay motivated.



Choosing Indian Classical Over Western Instruments

While Western instruments like piano and guitar are popular, Indian classical instruments offer unique advantages:

  • They promote deeper connection to culture.
  • They’re less crowded in the performance space, giving learners more opportunities.
  • They train the ear for microtonal variation (shruti) and complex rhythm cycles.



Career and Academic Benefits

Learning classical music can lead to performance opportunities, teaching careers, music therapy, and academic recognition through grade exams and competitions. Several Indian universities also offer scholarships and degrees in Indian classical music.



CONCLUSION

The top 5 classical instruments to learn for future musicians—sitar, tabla, mridangam, bansuri, and veena—are more than just tools for music-making. They are gateways to culture, expression, and lifelong learning. Whether you’re a parent looking to introduce your child to Indian music or a teenager hoping to explore something meaningful and different, these instruments offer unmatched depth and versatility. Start your musical journey today and let the timeless sounds of India shape your future.



At NMS Musicals, we offer a comprehensive range of musical instruments, including percussion, string, wind, and keyboard instruments. Our services encompass sales, expert servicing, and the manufacture of leather instruments. Explore our diverse collection and find the perfect instrument to suit your musical needs.

Visit our website to browse our offerings: nmsmusicals.in

For a closer look at our products, check out our shop page: nmsmusicals.in/shop

Stay connected with us through our social media channels:
Our shop locations are:

For inquiries, contact/Whatsapp us at 9500663895 or email us at laxman.m89@gmail.com.

Discover the world of musical instruments with NMS Musicals today!

For a visual overview of our percussion instruments, watch the following video: